This past week it was! I saw Amanda Palmer play a small venue in Somerville, Mass. I made a point of not listening to her music beforehand, so I could just be hit over the head with whatever she performed. And I was. She is the real deal in terms of being an artist -- intelligent and profound lyrics, delivered beautifully with a strong, purposeful voice, and a personality that is an endearing blend of honesty, confidence, and a little insecurity, too. As the hour was getting late and it was a school night, I did not stay for the whole show, what I did see was thought provoking and truly inspiring.
Those that know me understand that music is an important part of my life. Not just any music, but music written and performed by artists that mean the world to me -- because they help me understand it. Trendy music comes and goes, and I am a fan of most of the alternative stuff from the 80's. There are several mainstays that have floored me, and continue to do so -- Roddy Frame (Aztec Camera), Marc Almond, Bauhaus, and The Jazz Butcher (a.k.a. "Pat Fish") and a few others have done this since I was a spikey haired sixteen year old. Amanda Palmer is now on this top shelf list for me. In just a couple songs, she got me hooked.
I particularly liked the song "In My Mind" about reflecting on ones own personal expectations for the future, and coming to terms with the reality of who we are right now. Very apt discussion in my own head, daily! Amanda said she wrote this while self-consciously attending a yoga retreat and felt it was a little too crunchy to be a good song at first. I'm glad she went forward with it as it is a perfect tune that describes how so many women (and maybe men) feel today. If you have a few minutes, check it out!
Today, I am making my house a little cleaner and hopefully working on some artwork. And getting caught up on a little sleep, too! What will you make today?